Free roaming Question

[smalljewells]

I am new to this Chicken thing, gotta tell you, I am loving every minute of it! My question is , My neighbors have chickens that sometimes wander into my yard. If I let my new chickens free range, will they fight?

 

[greenfamilyfarms]

If you have a rooster and they have a rooster, then they probably will fight over territory. Plus, some hens will fight each other over pecking order.

My main concern would be disease/illness control. How do you know that your neighbor is taking good care of their chickens and practicing good biosecurity to prevent disease? Just think about it - if one chicken (either yours or theirs) gets sick, that illness could spread to BOTH flocks. That sounds like a potential problem or even a lawsuit.

 

[smalljewells]

Thanks, I will talk to my neighbor. He seems like he takes really good care of his flock. He will probably ask the same questions of me.

 

[New2TheCoop]

I will tell you this... I am new to this as well. I have 2 separate flocks on 6 acres. They never interact at all. About a week ago I accidentally got my chicken count, and left a hen out! They immediately attacked her and I had to save her. Just use your better judgement.